2005 Chevrolet Cobalt Reviews, Pricing & Specs

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$14,190 to $21,995

Original MSRP

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expert review

4.1

avg user rating

(40 reviews)
2005 Chevrolet Cobalt Preview summaryImage

Getting old and looking old, the Chevrolet Cavalier was not able to compete with the more stylish and better performing subcompacts in its class. So in 2005, Chevrolet ditched the Cavalier for a new design utilizing its stiffer Delta platform, improved aerodynamics, and a dressed-up interior. Thus was born the sleeker, more dynamic, more fun Chevrolet Cobalt -- the sophisticated sibling to the blander Aveo subcompact. Available as a sedan or coupe, the improved and peppier ride surprised both reviewers and owners who were expecting a rebadged Cavalier.

The sedan comes as a base, LS and LT; the coupe as a base, LS, or supercharged SS. All but the base feature ABS brakes, power locks and windows, and cruise control, but even the base represents a good value with its CD player, manually adjustable driver's seat, air conditioning, and split-folding rear seats that expand the already large trunk. Dual front airbags are standard, with an option for side curtain, and the Cobalt performs adequately in crash tests. All models but the SS are powered by the 145-hp, 2.2-liter Ecotec I4 from the Cavalier, paired with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. The SS features a stiffer suspension, larger 18-inch wheels, and a supercharged 2.0-liter I4, delivering 205-hp and 200 lb-ft of torque. It's no street racer, but the Cobalt's light weight doesn't need much horsepower to fly 0-60 in just over six seconds. The SS coupe gets the sports car treatment, with chrome exhaust, ground effects, rocker panels, rounded taillights, and a rear spoiler, which unfortunately causes major blind spots for drivers.

As subcompacts go, the Cobalt is a fun and sporty replacement for the tired Cavalier, and its affordable price is a big draw. Drivers love the crisp handling, sound system, and budget-oriented fuel economy, which clocks in around 24/33 mpg. Major complaints mentioned uncomfortable seats, a small trunk opening for an otherwise spacious trunk, and shallow cupholders.

CarGurus Editorial Team
Published Aug 8, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
While we highlight specific author bylines where possible, sometimes our content results from the combined efforts of several members of the CarGurus editorial team. As with all our editorial content, you can expect high levels of automotive insight and expertise delivered in a style that is approachable and free from jargon.

User reviews for 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt

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User rating:
by Anonymous
Sep 16, 2024
Even though its a pain sometimes I love my 2005 Chevy Cobalt.Sep 16, 2024
by Anonymous
Apr 24, 2014
The interior is fairly big for the car being the size it is. As long as you're a passenger it's a comfortable ride. It would be more comfortable for the driver if there was cruise control. The one I drove didn't have it but other than that it was nice to drive. Good handling and traction on dry roads. Overall good and reliable car. Hasn't had any major issues yet.Apr 24, 2014
by Theresa D
Apr 09, 2014
This is the perfect little car. She was super inexpensive to purchase, even brand new, and very inexpensive to maintain. I've had her for 9 years now, and she shows no signs of slowing down. I plan on passing her down to my daughter :)Apr 09, 2014

2005 Chevrolet Cobalt Pricing

Original MSRP
$14,190 to $21,995
Price range
N/A
Average price on CG
N/A
YoY price change
N/A

Trims & specs

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Single front air conditioning zones

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front and rear head airbags · Front side airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Convenience Features

Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable

Lights

Headlights: Auto on/off

Rear Seats

Type: bench

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: cloth

Tires and Rims

Wheels: steel

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Single front air conditioning zones

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front and rear head airbags · Front side airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Convenience Features

Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable

Lights

Headlights: Auto on/off

Rear Seats

Type: bench

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: cloth

Tires and Rims

Wheels: steel

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Single front air conditioning zones

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front and rear head airbags · Front side airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Headlights: Auto on/off

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Rear Seats

Type: bench

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: cloth

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Single front air conditioning zones

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front and rear head airbags · Front side airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Headlights: Auto on/off

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Rear Seats

Type: bench

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: cloth

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Single front air conditioning zones

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front and rear head airbags · Front side airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Center console: front console with storage · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Headlights: Auto on/off

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Rear Seats

Type: bench

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leather

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Single front air conditioning zones

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front and rear head airbags · Front side airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Dash trim: alloy · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Center console: front console with storage · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Headlights: Auto on/off

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Rear Seats

Type: bench

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leather

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

See all trims (6)